As the 2013-14 NBA season inches closer, projections and predictions continue to stir up discussion with fans. In the latest look ahead at the Western Conference next season from Sporting News, Sean Deveney says the Portland Trail Blazers will slide into the eighth and final playoff spot for a chance to take on the Los Angeles Clippers in the first round of the NBA playoffs. But is that an accurate prediction?

Based on much of the discussion taking place in the comments, the majority of Trail Blazers seem to think No. 8 seems just about right. Others argue that with the addition of Robin Lopez to the starting lineup and a beefed up bench, the Trail Blazers could go as high as No. 5 in the Western Conference.